The Mannequal™ has been created to bridge one of the many gaps found in our society; the void that exists between disabled customers and the exclusive fashion world.
It was designed by Sophie Morgan who was irritated by the lack of representation of disability on the high street and decided to create a product that would call an end
to disability discrimination. The Mannequal™ evolved and is the first display product of its kind - a wheelchair for a mannequin.
In the UK there are 1.94 million people, aged between 16 and 30 who have a disability and 600 million worldwide. The symbol that has come to reflect this category of person, regardless of age, colour or nationality, is the universally recognised wheelchair. While the Mannequal™ is essentially a display chair, the message of inclusivity that this will give to all customers cannot be underestimated.
product specification
The Mannequal™ has been designed to seat both male and female mannequins of standard height and width measurements and it can be decorated and styled to coordinate aesthetically, unobtrusively and subtly with
any in store display or shop window.
It is specifically designed to seat a mannequin without obstructing the view of the clothing. The mannequin can be styled in the same manner that would be used to style any other seated mannequin.
The Mannequal™ can be delivered in white; a blank canvas for the creative team to manipulate according to their
intended brief, or in a range of colours including pantones. It can also be personalised, to show a brand or company logo or design.
The topic of inclusivity within the fashion world has been
increasing momentum and the benefits of a product such as
the Mannequal™ cannot be
ignored. Not only does it offer equality to all customers, but
the Mannequal™ is a valuable
asset to the retailer.
The Mannequal™ exists as a reflection of a commitment to ensure that responsibilities have been met under the Disability Discrimination Act, and that goods and services are accessible.
The Mannequal™ clearly suggests an attitude of
acceptance, and therefore reinforces the shops offer of assistance and guidance for any customer, disabled or not.
Not only is the Mannequal™ a reflection of correct moral and ethical conduct, more importantly it is also helps to include and empower disabled shoppers.
The Mannequal™ can act as an in-store guide to fashion that is suited to a seated customer. It also
communicates
with the able-bodied shopper who can refer to the seated mannequin for inspiration.